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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services

@massdfs.bsky.social
254 followers 21 following 415 posts

We support the Massachusetts fire service and help all our communities stay safe from fire.

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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 48m
The Mass Fire Academy's Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program is delivered with the @umassboston.bsky.social Collins Center for Public Management. Five months of intensive classroom instruction and independent study enhance students' skills in municipal fire department leadership.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 14h
October is #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth. A recent survey showed that breast cancer accounted for more than 25% of cancer diagnoses among women firefighters. DFS offers free mammograms and other cancer screenings for firefighters: learn more at ow.ly/C8Is50To5MQ
This image features a badge for the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services. The design prominently incorporates pink and the words Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
On this date in 1964, Boston Fire Lt. John McCorkle, Lt. John Geswell, FF Robert Clougherty, FF Francis Murphy, & FF James Sheedy made the ultimate sacrifice at a five-alarm fire on Trumbull St. Read more: www.firehero.org/2021/10/25/memoria…
Fallen Firefighters Memorial
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
As we close out College Fire Safety Month, remember that student housing (and all housing in Massachusetts) should have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Check the manufacturing date on the back to be sure they're within their useful lifespan and test them every month: bit.ly/3NjZFWQ
A person tests a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm on a ceiling. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services logo is visible. A sign states that Massachusetts law requires smoke and CO alarms in all residences, advising not to spend a night in certain housing without them.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
DFS Hazmat technicians supported @SpringfieldFire this month at the scene of a chemical reaction. Wearing Level A suits, techs were able to transport the container outdoors to off-gas while metering the environment. Once safe, they released the scene to a private cleanup company for safe disposal.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
#TechRescue Tuesday: The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy's Technical Rescue Group recently delivered its Water Rescue class for 21 firefighters from across the state. Great work by our students and thank you as always to our instructors and support staff!
Firefighters training for water rescueFirefighters training for water rescueFirefighters training for water rescueFirefighters training for water rescue
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
Today is #WorldHeartDay. Everyone knows firefighters have big hearts, but they're at greater risk of heart disease, too. One study suggests that this risk increases w/ more fire-related calls. Protect yourself & your health! Read more from the American Heart Association: ow.ly/4lRE50X2v90
A "World Heart Day" image with a message advising firefighters of the increased heart disease risk and encouraging heart care.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
A 9-alarm fire that claimed the lives of two Boston firefighters started with unsafe hot work. DFS has revised its Hot Work web page to provide the public with information on hot work violations, as well as regulatory requirements for workers & businesses: bit.ly/4yfneGc
This image is an informational flyer from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services titled "Massachusetts Hot Work Requirements." The flyer provides guidance on regulations and safety practices for hot work activities, emphasizing the importance of permits and precautions.This image is an informational flyer from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services titled "Massachusetts Hot Work Requirements." The flyer provides guidance on regulations and safety practices for hot work activities, emphasizing the importance of permits and precautions.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Western Mass fire chiefs, NFPA, and New England's State Fire Marshals joined State Fire Marshal Davine at the Big E fair last week to advance Fire Prevention Week. This year's theme addresses safely charging lithium-ion batteries. Read more: bit.ly/4rzcC2r
Fire officials at a podium at a state fairFire officials at a podium at a state fairFire officials at a podium at a state fairFire officials at a podium at a state fair
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 27/09/2026
Rehab 7, back in quarters
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 27/09/2026
If you're using a generator for storm-related power outages, remember to use it safely and be sure you have working #SmokeAlarms and #CarbonMonoxide alarms on every level of your home. Used improperly, generators can pose a fire hazard or CO risk: bit.ly/4APH2lx
A safety poster titled "Generator Safety" lists safety tips: never use a generator indoors, place it outside away from doors and windows, plug appliances directly into it or use a heavy-duty outdoor cord, let it cool before refueling, and have a licensed electrician install a transfer switch. It advises the use of carbon monoxide alarms. An image of a generator on grass is shown.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
The Mass Commission for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing, @massdph.bsky.social OEMS, and DFS collaborated on an Emergency Services Card to help firefighters, EMS, and people who are Deaf or hard of hearing communicate during an emergency. Learn more and download a hi-res PDF at ow.ly/bo0B50TvH7h!
The image shows a pamphlet titled "Emergency Services Card" on a wooden surface. The card features sections with icons and text, including pain symptoms, feelings/symptoms, medical history, communication preferences, and emergency status.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
We have some lousy weather on tap this weekend. High winds and heavy rain make it safest to stay indoors if you can. If you must head out on the roads, drive safely, slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, and keep those headlights on -- it's the law!
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Congratulations to the members of Career Recruit #Class342! They're graduating from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy next week after 10 long weeks of foundational training. Join us in Stow on 10/2/26 at 11:00 am!
Three firefighters climbing an aerial ladder
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
DFS, #WestSpringfieldMA FD, the National Association of State Fire Marshals, and NFPA will be promoting fire safety and Fire Prevention Week at The Big E fair TODAY! Join us at noon by the Massachusetts Building!
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Due to circumstances beyond our control, tomorrow's home fire sprinkler demo at The Big E has been called off, but we'll still be on hand to promote fire safety in advance of #FirePreventionWeek. Meet fire service leaders from across New England at noon by the Massachusetts building!
Carousel with local and state fire safety agency logos
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Last week's technical rescue challenge was a massive undertaking with many logistical and operational needs. The DFS Special Operations team delivered a Rehab unit for participant health & safety, an Incident Support Unit for communications, conferencing, and mapping; and drones for aerial imagery.
Firefighter support personnel and apparatusFirefighter support personnel and apparatusFirefighter support personnel and apparatusFirefighter support personnel and apparatus
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Congratulations to the Mass Fire Academy's most recent Fire Officer II class! After more than 60 hours of classroom instruction and homework, they've honed their leadership abilities and developed a wide range of management skills vital on the fireground and in the firehouse.
Fire officers and instructors in a leadership class
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Massachusetts fire departments are eligible to apply for the FY27 SAFE and Senior SAFE grant programs. Nearly $2 million will support fire and life safety education for school-aged kids and older adults. Don't miss out -- visit bit.ly/3TBbZsF for the application!
Firefighters on stage are participating in a safety demonstration with children, using a large white sheet. There are logos for the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services and State Fire Marshal. A banner reads: "$2M in Grant Funding Available for Fire Safety Education."
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
#TechRescue Tuesday: Technical rescue teams from across Massachusetts showcased their skills at Purgatory Chasm in Sutton last week. Many members of the Massachusetts Fire Academy's Technical Rescue Group are also on these regional teams, teaching the skills they use on the job.
Firefighters demonstrating technical rescue skills in a remote wooded areaFirefighters demonstrating technical rescue skills in a remote wooded areaFirefighters demonstrating technical rescue skills in a remote wooded areaFirefighters demonstrating technical rescue skills in a remote wooded area
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
Did you know that #CarbonMonoxide is a leading cause of accidental poisoning? You don't need to carry a special meter like this one, but you do need working #CO alarms on every level of your home! Read more: bit.ly/3NjZFWQ
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
DFS, #WestSpringfieldMA FD, the National Association of State Fire Marshals, and NFPA will host a live fire demonstration at The Big E fair on Friday to showcase the lifesaving power of home fire sprinklers. Sprinklers protect people, pets, and property. See them in action on 9/25 at noon!
A large fire erupts inside a model room labeled "Without Fire Sprinklers," while another labeled "With Fire Sprinklers" remains unaffected. The event, featuring State Fire Marshal Jon Davine and West Springfield Fire Chief CJ Bartone, is scheduled for September 25, 2026, at 12:00 pm near the Massachusetts Building during the Big E. Logos for West Springfield Fire, the State Fire Marshal, and the Big E appear, with text emphasizing the importance of fire sprinklers.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 20/09/2026
Yom Kippur begins tonight at sundown. G'mar chatrima tova to all our friends who celebrate!
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 20/09/2026
Sept. 20-26, 2026, is the International Week of #Deaf People. Did you know that specialized #SmokeAlarms are available w/ flashing lights & vibrations? If you or a loved one are Deaf or hard of hearing, please be sure you're protected by smoke alarms that account for your needs.
 fire safety infographic from the Department of Fire Services highlighting smoke alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. It features illustrations of smoke alarms with flashing lights and vibration features. The message emphasizes the importance of having working smoke alarms in every home. Text includes: "Smoke alarms are important fire safety tools. Everyone needs working smoke alarms on every level of their home." and "Smoke alarms are available for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. They use flashing lights and vibrations to warn you of a fire." The bottom text reads: "Fire Safety is for Everyone!
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
DFS Hazmat techs responded to 5 mercury calls last month alone. Mercury is toxic! If you have a mercury spill at home, call 9-1-1, open the windows, and keep kids/pets away from the area. Better yet, safely dispose of mercury products before they become a hazard: bit.ly/4wNlinI
This image is a public safety announcement about mercury thermometers. It includes a broken mercury thermometer with visible mercury droplets. The text warns that mercury is toxic to people and wildlife and advises calling 9-1-1 immediately and opening windows if a thermometer breaks. It also advises keeping kids and pets away from a mercury spill and not trying to clean it up manually. The image suggests replacing mercury thermometers and checking for local hazardous waste disposal options. A phone number, 866-9MERCURY, is provided for more information.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
Shout-out to our brothers and sisters at the Gotham City Fire Department on #BatmanDay 2026!
Gotham City Fire Department helmet
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Congratulations to Firefighter Peter Reardon of @BrocktonFire, Massachusetts' 2026 Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year! A well-earned honor for a highly respected professional. Read more about this year's conference: bit.ly/4xrhM1P
Fire safety professionals at a conferenceFire safety professionals at a conferenceFire safety professionals at a conferenceFire safety professionals at a conference
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
For years, Firefighter Chuck Vinciulla of #WalthamMA FD has been seen showing kids how to "get low and go" in a dynamic photo on our conference booth backdrop. We were delighted to meet him in person yesterday at this year's Fire & Life Safety Education Conference!
Firefighter pointing to a picture of himself on a conference booth backdrop
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
Greetings from this year's Fire & Life Safety Education Conference. Thank you to all our attendees and guests, including #SouthbridgeMA Fire Chief Paul Normandin, Secretary Lipson and our keynote speakers from the Executive Office of Aging & Independence, and the Fire & Life Safety Task Force!
Speakers and attendees at a fire safety conferenceSpeakers and attendees at a fire safety conferenceSpeakers and attendees at a fire safety conferenceSpeakers and attendees at a fire safety conference
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
DFS Hazmat technicians supported #NewBedfordMA FD at the scene of an ammonia leak in a large cold storage facility. Techs wearing the appropriate protective equipment made repeated entries to locate and mitigate the leak with the constant assistance of local firefighters.
Hazmat techs at an ammonia leakHazmat techs at an ammonia leakHazmat techs at an ammonia leak
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
Did you feel that chill this morning? Home heating season begins today in Massachusetts. Having your heating system serviced each year can help prevent fires and save you money. Got a fireplace or woodstove? Have the chimney and flue inspected and cleaned: ow.ly/vPQG50TmM6s
Heating fires usually spike from September to October. Have your heating system checked by a licensed professional each year.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
#TechRescue Tuesday: The Mass Fire Academy recently delivered another Rope Rescue: Operational Level course at DFS Bridgewater. Firefighters from across the state practiced working in high- and low-angle environments in a manner that meets or exceeds the relevant NFPA standards.
Firefighters training for rope rescueFirefighters training for rope rescueFirefighters training for rope rescueFirefighters training for rope rescue
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
September is College Fire Safety Month. More fires take place in on-campus housing during September than any other month, and unsafe cooking is the most common cause. Stay in the kitchen and #StandByYourPan when boiling, broiling, or frying! Learn more: bit.ly/4xheyOm
Two people in a kitchen are preparing food. One is stirring a pan on the stove, while the other chops cherry tomatoes. Text reads: "Stand By Your Pan!" and "Unattended cooking is the #1 cause of fires in student housing." A fire department logo is visible.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
The Mass Fire Academy's Rapid Intervention prop allows us to take RIT training on the road. A window folds up from the roof for bailouts, another is built into the side, and a hatch on the roof allows students to practice removing a firefighter who has fallen through the floor.
Firefighter training trailer hooked up to a pickup truck
Firefighter bailing out the window on a training trailer
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
Happy #GrandparentsDay! Did you know that older adults are at greatest risk in a fire at home? This year, offer to help Nana and Grandpa install, test, or replace their #SmokeAlarms, and talk about a home escape plan that accounts for their needs: ow.ly/pwhf50SZKAJ
Happy Grandparents Day
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
50 years ago today, the legendary Bill Noonan shot these photos of #BostonMA FD working at a fatal five-alarm fire on Symphony Road. The incident, which claimed the life of 5-year-old Jesse Oliver, was one of dozens that would later be charged in sweeping indictments charging arson-for-hire.
black and white photo of a firefighter on an aerial ladderblack and white photo of a firefighter on an aerial ladderTwo handwritten photo captions reading "Sept 1976 Symphony Road"
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
#RoshHashanah began last night at sundown. L'shana Tova to all our friends who celebrate!
A jar of honey with a honey dipper, surrounded by pomegranate seeds and mint leaves. The image includes a message saying "L'shana tova!" and the DFS logo
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Today, DFS dedicated a plaque recognizing the 31 Massachusetts fire chaplains who responded to support @fdny.bsky.social 25 years ago. Meanwhile 50+ staff members and community residents came out to our blood drive with @redcrossma.bsky.social making a contribution that will save lives. Thank you!
Fire service leaders and a fire chaplain dedicating a memorial plaqueSteel from the World Trade CenterDFS and Red Cross staffDFS and Red Cross staff
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
#Remember
September 11 Memorial
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
As we observe World Suicide Prevention Day, we want to share this valuable discussion of grief and loss from the Massachusetts Corps of Fire Chaplains. Please share it, and help promote the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline -- call or text 988, or chat online at chat.988lifeline.org.
Article on grief and loss in the fire serviceArticle on grief and loss in the fire serviceArticle on grief and loss in the fire serviceArticle on grief and loss in the fire service
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Firefighters & other first responders face unique occupational stressors. Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Learn more: visit bit.ly/4usQHKy.
The image displays a poster promoting the "988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline." It states that you can access 24/7 emotional support in the U.S. by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org/chat. The bottom right corner shows a simple line drawing of a hand holding a phone.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
September is College Fire Safety Month. The relationships you build in college can last a lifetime: working #SmokeAlarms and two ways out in an emergency are no exception. Whether you live in a dorm, apartment, fraternity/sorority house, or your own home, they'll always be the best roommates evah!
Red information poster promoting fire safety. It features text emphasizing the importance of working smoke alarms, having two exits as escape routes, and being mindful of fire safety, aimed at college students. Includes logos of the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services and Fire Marshal.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
For fans of a certain age, this shirt is immediately recognizable as an homage to the New England Patriots' old logo. Do the younger recruits recognize it? We'll have to ask. Either way, good luck to the Pats in their season opener tonight!
Firefighter training at the Fire Academy
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
#TechRescue Tuesday: The Mass Fire Academy recently delivered its Rope Rescue Operational Level course in #HullMA. Ropes, webbing, harnesses, knots, and associated tools and skills are foundational for most technical rescue disciplines, and this course provides excellent experience.
Firefighters training for rope rescueFirefighters training for rope rescueFirefighters training for rope rescueFirefighters training for rope rescue
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
Captain's Log, Stardate 12609.08: Today is #StarTrekDay! If you want to live long and prosper, remember that #HomeFireSprinklers combined with working #SmokeAlarms reduce the risk of dying in a fire by 82%. Building or buying a home? Sprinklers are the logical choice!
Live long and prosper
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Happy #LaborDay to all, but especially to those who aren't taking a holiday today. We appreciate everything you do to keep us safe.
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 06/09/2026
DFS Rehab units deliver a temperature-controlled environment for firefighters to cool off, warm up, rehydrate, and recharge. They're available 24/7 to support our local partners at emergencies and planned events. Learn more about these and other Special Operations assets: bit.ly/3RoyXSW
Firefighter rehab vehicleFirefighter rehab vehicle
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 05/09/2026
If you're hosting a cookout this #LaborDay weekend, remember to keep it safe! Always grill outdoors at least 10' from the home, be sure an adult is present at all times, and keep kids and pets at least three feet away. Read more: www.mass.gov/info-details/grilling-…
Grill safely this weekend
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 05/09/2026
It's the first Saturday of the month, and that means it's #SmokeAlarmSaturday! This is a great time to test the #SmokeAlarms & #CarbonMonoxide alarms on every level of your home. They're your family's first line of defense against an emergency! Learn more: bit.ly/3NjZFWQ
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Massachusetts Department of Fire Services @massdfs.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
One week from today, DFS and @redcrossma.bsky.social will hold a blood drive to observe the 25th anniversary of 9/11. As we recognize so many who gave so much, this is a small sacrifice that almost all of us can make. We expect a large number of donors so please use the QR code to register!
Poster for a 9/11 blood drive event. Includes an American flag, a red cross, and an emblem of the Department of Fire Services. Details: "Donate Blood in Memory of Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice." Event at Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, September 11, 2026. Memorial ceremony at 9:55 am; blood drive from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. Contact information for the American Red Cross provided.
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